SFD gives details on 900-plus-acre fire

Journal-Advocate staff

Posted:
09/13/2012 02:26:48 PM MDT

September 10

At 3:47 p.m., fire units responded to a report of water leaking from a house near Third Avenue and State Street. Those responding found the leak to be a water break in the street with the water department on scene.

August 31

At 10:42 a.m., fire units responded to a grass fire south of Highway 14 near County Road 17. The fire was initially estimated at 150 acres. Merino responded as well. Barbed wire became lodged in the driveline of one of the fire engines during its initial return for additional water and could not return. New Raymer Fire was requested to assist after wind increased, moving the fire about half a mile north of its origin. Three air drops were then requested. The wind shifted form its initial approach out of the south to the east, creating a long head fire coming toward the road where units were filling with water. Three firefighters sustained smoke inhalation and minor burns form the encroaching fire. Fleming and Peetz fire then sent apparatus and personnel to assist before units were able to contain the fire. An additional firefighter was treated on scene for heat exhaustion. Merino and Sterling units continued to mop op, and a fire watch was conducted around 9 p.m. The cause of the fire was undetermined, and there was evidence of the fire starting near the intersection of C.R. 20.5 and C.R. 17. No structures were lost, but the final burn area was estimated at 980 acres.

RE-1 Valley School District has announced its policy for determining eligibility of children who may receive free and reduced price meals served under the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Program.
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